DFW-2026-079 McLaughlin Fish Hatchery Plumbing Repairs/Upgrades

MassWildlife, the Division of Fisheries and Wildlife under the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Department of Fish and Game, is soliciting competitive bids through a Request for Written Quotes (RFQ-DFW-2026-079) for comprehensive plumbing repairs and upgrades at the McLaughlin Fish Hatchery located at 90 East Street, Belchertown, in Hampshire County. The procurement requires all labor, materials, permits, and related services to upgrade plumbing infrastructure in an unheated attic space designed to prevent water freezing during periods of extreme temperatures. Specific deliverables include isolating and draining the existing water system, removing old water piping and valves extending to wall drops in the attic, installing new piping and valves, applying heat trace tape to all branches, and installing two-inch-thick insulation throughout the system. The contractor must also obtain necessary permits, submit material and shop drawings for approval, conduct testing of the plumbing and heat trace systems upon completion, and provide operator training. Required qualifications include a demonstrated ability to perform complex mechanical plumbing work, valid business registration and authorization, and proof that all on-site employees have completed a minimum ten-hour OSHA-approved construction safety and health course prior to work commencement. Submission requirements include a completed Mandatory Bid Sheet, a Business Reference Form documenting project references from the past two years, and a Contractor Authorized Signatory Listing. Written quotes must be submitted via email to james.burnham@mass.gov no later than May 4, 2026, at 2:00 p.m., with bid documents available through Commbuys.com beginning April 15, 2026. Contractors may schedule site visits by contacting the Hatchery Supervisor at (413) 323-7671 during standard operating hours of 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, though no formal pre-bid conference is scheduled. The project must commence promptly upon contract execution and Notice to Proceed, with all work completed by June 30, 2026.

There are no identified set-aside designations or restrictions limiting eligibility to disadvantaged enterprises; however, contractors must demonstrate compliance with Massachusetts prevailing wage rate requirements as established in the wage schedule dated April 9, 2026, with rates applicable to plumbers and pipefitters, HVAC mechanics, and related labor classifications. The contractor must be a corporation duly organized under Massachusetts law and assumes all risks and responsibilities associated with the work, including costs related to unforeseen obstructions, delays, weather conditions, and potential work suspensions. Performance and payment bonds are required, with the successful bidder obligated to submit a performance bond equal to 100 percent of the total contract price and a payment bond equal to 50 percent of the contract price within ten days of award. Comprehensive insurance coverage is mandatory, including commercial general liability, vehicle liability, worker's compensation, and property coverage with the Commonwealth named as an additional insured. The estimated project budget is $40,000, with the contract to be awarded to the lowest responsible and eligible bidder. The project is funded through General Bond Funds of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, and all weekly payroll reports must be submitted directly to the awarding authority to ensure compliance with prevailing wage payment requirements throughout the contract term.